Retro Revival: A Hip Vancouver Kitchen

Untouched since the ’70s, designer Nancy Riesco gave this space new life with fresh finishes, including light, wide-plank flooring, bright white walls and airy painted rafters. She also layered in a large, clean-lined island and workstation for practicality, and industrial lighting for a bit of edge. For the owners, it’s the perfect blend of old and new, with all their favorite items on display. “They love that the kitchen is a graphic backdrop to their entire space,” says Nancy.

“I wanted the kitchen to be bright, open and easy to work in,” says Nancy. A long, storage-packed island and a vintage wooden work table are both practical places to set out snacks or prep meals, but with the work table’s enviable Victoria Harbour views, we can guess which is the favorite spot.

“The homeowners use the shelving we designed to showcase their vintage dishes and pottery,” says Nancy. To the right of the range, a yellow McCoy jug and Danish coffee set add a touch of retro character, without veering into kitschy territory. A mix of new and vintage artwork — including a portrait painted by the owners’ daughter, Isabelle — completes the kitchen’s eclectic aesthetic.